United Way of Palm Beach County launches 18th year of Taxes Filed Free program

Posted 1/28/21

WEST PALM BEACH — United Way of Palm Beach County’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program officially begins its 18th year of service on Feb. 1, offering free income tax …

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United Way of Palm Beach County launches 18th year of Taxes Filed Free program

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WEST PALM BEACH — United Way of Palm Beach County’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program officially begins its 18th year of service on Feb. 1, offering free income tax preparation throughout Palm Beach County to those with a 2020 household income of $66,000 or less.

This program provides taxpayers with fast refunds by filing electronically through a secure IRS-certified program, so they can receive their hard-earned money quickly and save hundreds of dollars on filing fees. Last year, the VITA Program helped Palm Beach County taxpayers save over $1.2 million in fees had they used a tax-preparation service.

In 2020, VITA processed nearly 7,000 income tax returns for lower income households resulting in upwards of $3.8 million in earned income tax credits and $11.8 million in tax refunds. Since 2003, this program has returned approximately $242 million to the Palm Beach County economy through preparing returns for individuals and families in the community.

To continue providing this critical service and keep our volunteers and community safe, VITA is offering three socially distanced and virtual options this year. IRS-certified volunteers can file taxes for you in-person at one of our 12 VITA sites across Palm Beach County, or drop off and scan your documents into a secure, IRS platform and pick up your return later. You can also file your own tax return online at www.MyFreeTaxes.com.

When visiting a VITA site, taxpayers need to bring the following documents: 2019 tax return, social security cards and birthdates for all family members, all W2 statements for 2020, forms 1099 and 1098, a photo ID and a voided check. Joint returns require both spouses to attend. Those who earned less than $50,954 may also be eligible for up to $6,660 in Earned Income Tax Credits.

The VITA Program is possible through United Way of Palm Beach County’s partnership with the Internal Revenue Service, 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast, the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners, Bank of America, Third Federal, and Wells Fargo.

To find out more about the VITA program, visit www.TaxesFiledFree.org or call 2-1-1.

About United Way of Palm Beach County
For more than 90 years, United Way of Palm Beach County has been the local leader dedicated to identifying and addressing critical community issues to improve the lives of our residents. We champion community change by strategically uniting key stakeholders and community leaders and investing in successful, sustainable nonprofits. United Way funds 100 local programs and initiatives that provide lasting solutions and measurable results – from increasing graduation rates and supporting literacy to ensuring financial independence, promoting healthy lifestyles and ending hunger. When you support United Way of Palm Beach County, you are strengthening your community. To learn more call 561.375.6600 or visit www.UnitedWayPBC.org.

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